The overall purpose with standardization of the printing process is to achieve a correct, process optimized quality communication from creation of the original to the final printed product. The standardization will secure high print quality which is predictable and reproducible. 

The globalization together with other needs, have increased the demand on printed products. More often than earlier printed matters included in a marketing campaign may be produced with different print technologies, at different geographical sites and on different substrates, but, still they have to achieve the same appearance not least regarding colour.

In order to achieve this uniform print quality, definitions and standards are needed for the transfer of procedures i.e. data and document formats and for qualities i.e. processes, materials, measurement equipments as well as proofing conditions.

Examples are the selection of paper grades, inks, ICC profiles used for colour management, PDF formats, contract proofs and how they are produced, calibration and control of measuring devices and methods, the conditions of visual appraisal as viewing conditions, the production of print forms and the settings of the printing press. Under ISO 12647 and other print related standards, an essential part of prerequisites for standardized printing is found.